Flight Details
The pilot crossed Salida Airport at an altitude of 8,200 feet and approached Monarch Pass, which has an elevation of 11,312 feet, at 10,500 feet. The distance between Salida and Monarch Pass is 17.5 miles.
Engine Performance
During the approach, the pilot reported that the engine 'popped twice' and power dropped by 600-700 rpm from a setting of 2,450 rpm. The computed density altitude at Monarch Pass was 15,061 feet mean sea level. According to the Beech Aircraft Company, at the best rate of climb airspeed of 70 knots, the airplane would be capable of climbing 270 feet per minute at 8,000 feet and 50 feet per minute at 12,000 feet.
Landing Attempt
The pilot attempted to land on U.S. Highway 50 but was forced to pull up and bank sharply due to an approaching vehicle. The airplane then landed hard and subsequently collided with terrain.
Postaccident Test
Postaccident functional testing of the engine resulted in full power being developed.